Books About Islands · 317 titles considered

The Best Islands Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about islands? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Notorious
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The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Islands

Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 10–15 · 1882

Treasure Island

By Robert Louis Stevenson

A young boy discovers a pirate's treasure map, but danger lurks on the high seas.

336 pages· 67,946 words· Est. 6.5 hour read
6.8/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 552,614 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Young Jim Hawkins stumbles upon a pirate's treasure map, igniting a perilous adventure. As he sets sail with Doctor Livesey and Squire Trelawney, treachery brews among the crew. The cunning Long John Silver, with his own designs on the treasure, poses a threat. Can Jim outwit the infamous pirate and claim the fortune, or will the lure of gold lead to his downfall? Amidst villains and wild seas, the quest for Captain Flint's treasure tests courage and loyalty. Will Jim's spirit of adventure triumph over the perils that await on Treasure Island?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Notorious

On a peculiar island, two teens unravel a dog's murder mystery linked to a gangster past.

307 pages· 57,253 words· Est. 8 hour read
6.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 1,834 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Keenan, new to the odd Centerlight Island, teams up with his quirky neighbor ZeeBee to solve the mystery of her dog's death. As they dig into the island's Prohibition-era secrets, they uncover a conspiracy that puts them in danger. With everyone a suspect and a new dog by their side, Keenan and ZeeBee must navigate a web of intrigue. Will they crack the case before it's too late, or will the island's dark past catch up with them?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

Caterpillar Summer

A summer trip reveals family secrets and tests sibling bonds.

320 pages· 55,933 words· Est. 8 hour read
6.3/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 3,571 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Cat, the glue of her family, faces a summer of unexpected challenges when a trip goes awry, leaving her and her brother Chicken with grandparents they've never met. As Cat navigates this new world, she discovers the power of healing and understanding in strained relationships. Can she find a way to be a kid again while holding her family together? This heartfelt journey explores the depths of family bonds and the courage to embrace change.
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2004

Peter and the Starcatchers

Orphan Peter's voyage turns perilous with a mysterious trunk and dangerous foes.

452 pages· 83,144 words· Est. 9.5 hour read
6.0/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 78,739 ratings
$10.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Orphan Peter embarks on a perilous journey aboard the ship Never Land, where he meets Molly, a young Starcatcher. Together, they must protect a magical trunk from a ruthless pirate and the island's inhabitants. As they face treacherous seas and fierce battles, secrets unfold, revealing the true nature of their mission. Will Peter and Molly succeed in safeguarding the stardust, or will the forces of greed and danger prevail? Dive into a world of adventure and mystery, where every twist brings them closer to the heart of the legendary tale of Peter Pan.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–13

Island of the Blue Dolphins

By Scott O'Dell, Ted Lewin (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Island of the Blue Dolphins series

Alone on a desolate island, a girl battles nature and wild dogs for survival.

Newbery Medal (1961)
177 pages· 40,023 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
5.4/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 354,299 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: On a remote island off California, Karana faces the ultimate test of survival. Alone for eighteen years, she must fend off wild dogs, evade hunters, and secure food. Her journey transforms isolation into a tale of resilience and spirit. Can she find strength in solitude, or will the island's challenges prove too great? Discover the haunting adventure of courage and self-reliance in this timeless classic.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2021

The Adventure Is Now

A boy must solve cryptic clues to save a threatened island.

336 pages
4.1/5 Goodreads · 484 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Milton P. Greene, struggling with family and school, is sent to Lone Island for the summer. There, he discovers a chance to become the explorer he's always dreamed of. But the island's future is in jeopardy, and only a mysterious field guide can save it. With new friends, Milton must unravel cryptic clues and embark on a thrilling adventure to protect the island. Can he rise to the challenge and find his true self along the way?
Chapter Book · Ages 7–12 · 1947

Misty of Chincoteague

By Marguerite Henry, Wesley Dennis (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Misty series

A wild mare eludes capture until two children change everything on Pony Penning Day.

176 pages· 23,429 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 48,268 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: On Chincoteague Island, a wild mare named Phantom captivates two children who are determined to capture her. As Pony Penning Day approaches, their lives intertwine with the elusive horse in unexpected ways. While Phantom remains untamed, her colt Misty offers a different story, one of loyalty and gentleness. Will the children find what they seek, or will the wild spirit of the island change them forever? Discover the mystery and magic of a bond between humans and horses in this timeless tale.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–11

My Father's Dragon

A young boy runs away from home to rescue a baby dragon from a group of wild animals on a remote island

96 pages· 7,571 words· Est. 1 hour read
5.0/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 37,775 ratings
Bookroo Collection Edition: Hardcover
Summary: A young boy embarks on a daring adventure to Wild Island, determined to rescue a baby dragon held captive by lazy animals. As he navigates the island's dangers, will he succeed in freeing the dragon and returning home safely? The stakes are high, and the journey is fraught with unexpected challenges.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

The Wild Robot

By Peter Brown · Book #1 in the Wild Robot series

A robot must adapt to survive on a wild island, but her past threatens her newfound home.

320 pages· 34,482 words· Est. 5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 130,194 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Roz, a robot, awakens alone on a wild island with no memory of her past. To survive, she must learn from the wary animals around her. As she befriends them, the island becomes a home. But when her mysterious past resurfaces, Roz faces a challenge that could change everything. Can she protect her new life, or will her origins tear it apart? This tale explores the clash between nature and technology, raising questions about survival and identity.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

Lalani of the Distant Sea

A girl braves a perilous sea quest to save her mother and her future.

400 pages· 51,828 words· Est. 7 hour read
3.9/5 Goodreads · 3,928 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Twelve-year-old Lalani Sarita must leave her island home to find the mythical Mount Isa and save her ailing mother. Facing a treacherous sea and a history of failed quests, can Lalani defy fate and succeed where others have perished? Inspired by Filipino folklore, this tale of courage and self-discovery explores the power of friendship and the choice between destiny and forging your own path. Will Lalani's journey lead to salvation or doom?
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Islands Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about islands for the youngest readers and listeners.

Anne of Green Gables (BabyLit Primer)

Ages 0–3 · 2017

Explore Anne's cherished places on Prince Edward Island.

Your Island

Ages 2–5 · 2025

Create your own island world as the sun sets.

Counting Crocodiles

Ages 0–3 · 1997

A monkey must cross crocodile-infested waters to reach a banana tree.

Sale price
$999

Treasure Island

Ages 2–4 · 2015

Sail the seas with Jim Hawkins, discovering treasure and shapes. Beware, danger lurks!

Maui Hooks the Islands

Ages 3–5 · 2016

A demigod's magic hook raises islands from the sea.

Sale price
$995

Good Night Hawaii

Ages 0–3 · 2007

Explore Hawaii's wonders with your toddler through vibrant illustrations and soothing bedtime stories.

Hawaiian Ocean Lullaby

Ages 2–4 · 2015

Count ocean creatures in a moonlit Hawaiian adventure.

Moana

Ages 2–5 · 2016

A daring teen sails to find a mythical island, facing oceanic wonders and ancient legends.

View all islands board books
Browse by age

Islands Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about islands for preschool and elementary-age readers.

McToad Mows Tiny Island

Ages 4–8 · 2015

A man mows the lawn on a small island every Thursday.

Hello Lighthouse

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A lighthouse keeper and his wife live on a tiny island at the edge of the world.

Island

2018

A shipwrecked family discovers their island home hides a magical secret.

Aloha Everything

Ages 5–8 · 2024

A young girl discovers the true meaning of aloha through hula and Hawaiian culture.

Too Cool for Rules

Ages 4–8 · 2011

Can Alvin and the Chipmunks break free from Dave's rules on their cruise?

Island

Ages 5–8 · 2012

Discover the Galápagos: a land of unique creatures, born of fire, facing an uncertain future.

Grandad's Island

Ages 4–8 · 2015

A boy discovers a magical island and learns to say goodbye.

Sale price
$399

The Magic School Bus Blows Its Top

Ages 4–8 · 1996

A missing globe piece leads to an explosive underwater adventure.

One Morning in Maine

Ages 3–7 · 1952

Sal's loose tooth leads to unexpected adventures at Buck's Harbour.

Circle Unbroken

Ages 4–8 · 2004

A grandmother shares a legacy of resilience through basket weaving.

The Long Island

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Five explorers leave home to uncover the mysteries beyond their island.

The Circus Ship

Ages 4–8 · 2009

A circus ship sinks off the coast of Maine, leaving its animals to fend for themselves on a nearby island.

Browse by age

Islands Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about islands for developing and independent readers.

Nim's Island

Ages 7–11 · 1999

A young girl lives on a deserted island with her scientist father and various animal friends.

The Cay

Ages 11–15 · 1969

Stranded at sea, a boy must rely on an unlikely ally to survive and see beyond prejudice.

Sale price
$1499

We Were Liars

Ages 12–18 · 2014

A private island, a secretive family, and a friendship that turns destructive. What truth lies beneath the lies?

Lord of the Flies

Ages 14–18 · 1954

Stranded boys' paradise turns to chaos as order collapses.

Al Capone Does My Shirts

Ages 10–14 · 2004

A boy navigates life on Alcatraz Island amidst notorious criminals and family challenges.

Up the Misty Peak

Ages 6–9 · 2019

A quest to find a missing fairy leads to a mysterious island.

Jailbreak at Alcatraz

Ages 8–12 · 2021

Three inmates vanish from Alcatraz, sparking an unsolved mystery.

Sale price
$999

The Zombie Chasers

Ages 8–12 · 2014

Fleeing super zombies, a team races to find a cure in the Caribbean.

Candle Island
Sale price
$1899

Candle Island

Ages 10–+ · 2025

On Candle Island, secrets and art intertwine, challenging Lucretia's quest for peace.

Listen to the Moon
Sale price
$1999

Listen to the Moon

Ages 10–14 · 2014

A lost girl, a war-torn family, and a ship's fateful journey intertwine in mystery and survival.

Sale price
$1699

The Heir of Mistmantle

Ages 10–12 · 2007

A princess vanishes, a mysterious illness spreads, and whispers of an old enemy haunt Mistmantle.

Sale price
$1799

The Islanders

Ages 8–11 · 2021

Three kids must protect a sea turtle nest from predators on a remote island, facing personal challenges and unexpected adventures.

Keep exploring
Books about buried treasureBooks about family problemsBooks about piratesBooks about survival storiesBooks about conservationBooks about coping with deathBooks about courageBooks about dragons

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